UPS Hydrogen Fuel Cell Truck Throws Cold Water On Tesla

Elon Musk cranked up the usual media buzz last month when he teased the idea of an electrified Tesla truck. But it looks like hydrogen fuel cell technology is giving his much-publicized EV brand a run for the money.

On Tuesday, UPS announced a first-of-its-kind demo project that will put a prototype electric truck through the delivery company's rigorous paces. And it's powered by a hydrogen fuel cell.

Hydrogen fuel cells vs. batteries

For those of you new to the topic, Tesla cars and other electric vehicles have a lot in common with hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. They both run on electric motors, and they are both zero-emission vehicles at the tailpipe.

The primary difference is that battery EVs like Tesla's need to charge up before hitting the road, while fuel cell EVs can be fueled up in a matter of minutes like gasmobiles.

Fuel cell EVs are just beginning to nudge their way into the passenger car market, but battery EVs have a running start in that sector. Fuel cell vehicles will have to come down in cost before they can compete effectively.

Another challenge is the nation's network of hydrogen fueling stations, which is thin to non-existent in most parts of the country.

It's a different picture in the commercial truck sector, where fuel cell vehicles could have an edge in terms of range and power.

The prototype is expected to hit the streets of Sacramento, California, later this year in the form of a Class 6 medium-duty delivery truck.

UPS is calling this a first-of-its kind test because the fuel cell EV will be used in both short-haul and long-haul environments, and it will be expected to meet -- or beat -- the performance of conventional UPS trucks.

UPS started the Rolling Laboratory in 2009 under the Barack Obama administration. So far, the company estimates that it has used the Rolling Laboratory strategy on more than 8,300 vehicles, with an estimated investment of more than $750 million in "alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles and fueling stations."

Bike fans take note: The Rolling Laboratory approach also includes bicycles and e-bikes.

Meanwhile, UPS is not waiting around for the fuel cell fleet to log in 5,000 hours of service. The company is continuing invest in cleaner vehicles.

Tina writes frequently for TriplePundit and other websites, with a focus on military, government and corporate sustainability, clean tech research and emerging energy technologies. She is a former Deputy Director of Public Affairs of the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, and author of books and articles on recycling and other conservation themes. She is currently Deputy Director of Public Information for the County of Union, New Jersey. Views expressed here are her own and do not necessarily reflect agency policy.